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Genetic Services

Genetic counseling at MedStar Harbor Hospital helps identify the risk of having a baby with birth defects, mental retardation, or an inherited disease. Genetic counseling may occur either before or during a pregnancy. The process begins with a genetic counselor reviewing the parents' family, medical and obstetric histories. From this information, the counselor can determine and explain the possible genetic risks a couple may face in their pregnancy.

Not every couple needs genetic counseling, but those with certain risk factors may find genetic counseling and testing helpful. Risk factors include:

Pregnancy at the age of 35 or older

A history of multiple miscarriages

A family history of a genetic disease

A family history of mental retardation or birth defects

Exposure to certain medications or drugs during pregnancy

An ethnic or racial background in which a certain genetic disorder is more common (i.e. - sickle cell disease for African-Americans)

Genetic Testing

Once risks have been identified, a genetic counselor will discuss tests that are available to you and your baby. Certain blood tests may be offered to determine if parents are carriers for hereditary disorders. Other tests may be offered during the pregnancy to assess the baby for specific problems. These fetal diagnostic procedures may include:

Amniocentesis: the sampling of amniotic fluid using a hollow needle inserted into the uterus, to screen for developmental abnormalities in a fetus

Biophysical profiles: a prenatal test used to check on a baby's well-being using fetal heart rate monitoring (non-stress test) and fetal ultrasound

Chorionic villus sampling: a prenatal test that involves taking a sample of some of the placental tissue to test for chromosomal abnormalities and some other genetic problems

Detailed fetal ultrasound: an imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of a baby in the uterus which can be used to evaluate possible problems or confirm a diagnosis

Maternal serum screening (MSS): a blood test available to pregnant women to help determine the risk of Down syndrome, Edward syndrome or neural tube defects

Ultrasound for Nuchal translucency: an ultrasound used to measure a collection of fluid under the skin at the back of your baby's neck to determine whether or not a baby is likely to have Down's syndrome

Your counselor will discuss the benefits and risks of these procedures, and how to proceed.

Request an Appointment

To schedule an appointment at the Fetal Assessment Center, please call

Waterfront Magazine

In Waterfront, you’ll learn tips to live a healthy and active life, as well as how we care for our community through free and low-cost screenings and programs. At MedStar Harbor Hospital, we’re focused on you and your good health. Learn more.